Table of Contents:
Quote of the day
Memory Air
Interesting stories this week
Living with Dementia: Mike’s Experience
Responding to YOU!
Just being there for someone can sometimes bring hope when all seems hopeless.
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Interesting Stories This Week:
UK dementia diagnosis delays up to 2 years
Alzheimer’s drugs may arrive within 5 years
Statins may reduce dementia risk by 13%
Dementia in the Western Pacific region
Gym raises money for Alzheimer’s in Sioux Falls
Living with Dementia: Mike’s Experience
Living with dementia does not have to mean the end of a meaningful life. That is the message shared by Mike Turner, who has been living with dementia for four years.
Speaking at a conference held at Queen’s University Belfast, titled Dementia: Caring for Today, Planning for Tomorrow, Mike spoke openly about the realities of life after diagnosis. While he acknowledges that some days can feel frustrating, he is clear that dementia does not define the limits of his life.
“I want to do things while I can remember,” Mike explained. To help him stay focused and motivated, he keeps a daily checklist of activities. This routine gives structure to his day and helps him continue living with intention, purpose, and independence wherever possible.
Mike’s wife, Christine, is his primary carer. She describes the experience as “very scary,” reflecting the emotional weight that often comes with caring for a loved one with dementia. Despite this, the couple make a conscious effort to stay active together — mentally, physically, and socially.
They regularly attend meet-ups run by organisations they are members of, sometimes together and sometimes separately. These connections play an important role in helping both Mike and Christine maintain a sense of identity, support, and community beyond the diagnosis.
Mike’s story is a reminder that while dementia brings challenges, it does not remove the possibility of an interesting, fulfilling, and meaningful life — especially when people are supported, listened to, and empowered to live well for as long as possible.
A Problem Shared is a Problem Halved
Every week, we share an honest story from a caregiver — the things most people are too afraid to say out loud.
This Week’s Caregiver Story-
“My husband was diagnosed with dementia years ago, and while everyone talks about ‘living well’, some days it feels overwhelming just keeping things together. I’m trying to support him to stay independent and do the things he enjoys, but I’m constantly scared of doing the wrong thing or pushing too hard. I love him deeply, but I’m exhausted, anxious, and sometimes I don’t recognise my own life anymore. I just want to know how to support him and survive this myself.”
Harvey says:
Thank you for sharing this so honestly. What you’ve described is something we hear from so many caregivers, and it’s important to say this clearly: nothing you are feeling is a failure.
Supporting someone with dementia is not about getting everything “right.” Dementia changes from day to day, and so the care needs to be flexible, compassionate, and realistic, for both of you.
A few key principles may help:
1. Support independence without pressure
Encouraging your husband to stay active and engaged is valuable, but it doesn’t need to be constant. Some days will be productive, others will be quiet. Both are okay. Think in terms of opportunities, not expectations.
2. Structure can reduce anxiety… for both of you
Simple routines, like short daily checklists or regular activities, can create a sense of safety and predictability. These don’t need to be ambitious. Even small, familiar actions can be meaningful.
3. You matter just as much as the person you care for
Exhaustion, anxiety, and grief are common, and valid. Caring is not a solo role. Staying connected to others, whether through support groups, trusted friends, or professional help, is not a luxury; it’s essential.
4. It’s okay to step back sometimes
You are allowed moments where you focus on yourself without guilt. Looking after your own mental and physical health is one of the most important ways you can continue to care well.
Living with dementia (as a family) is about adapting together, not being perfect. You are doing something incredibly hard, and the fact that you are asking these questions shows just how much you care.
You are not alone in this.
Harvey
If something’s been on your heart lately, let us know. We read every word. Your voice could offer comfort to someone else navigating the same journey.
At All About Alzheimer's we're dementia professionals but we're not medical doctors or lawyers. The information we provide is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical or legal advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for medical diagnoses, treatment or any health related concerns and consult with a lawyer on any legal issue.
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